India To Buy 300 Russian Missiles For S-400 Systems
The Centre is preparing to begin the procurement of around 300 Russian-made missiles to replenish India’s S-400 air-defence systems. Officials said a Request for Proposal will soon be issued to Rosoboronexport, the Russian state-owned defence exporter. The move comes as missile reserves have reduced after recent operational deployments of the S-400 units.
Mix Of Missiles To Restore Full Capability
The planned purchase is expected to include a mix of long-range, medium-range and short-range surface-to-air missiles used by the S-400 system. This replenishment will help restore the layered air-defence capability that the S-400 is designed to provide, enabling India to counter multiple types of aerial threats, including aircraft, drones and ballistic missiles.
Fast-Track Procurement Likely
The missile acquisition is expected to follow fast-track procedures due to operational urgency. Estimates suggest the procurement could cost over ₹10,000 crore. Officials clarified that India is not adding new S-400 batteries; the move is strictly to refill missile stocks for the systems already deployed or awaiting induction.
Strategic Importance For Air Defence
Maintaining adequate missile inventory for the S-400 is considered crucial for India’s long-term air-defence readiness. The move underscores New Delhi’s focus on strengthening high-end deterrence amid evolving regional security challenges.
